Translation guide
This English phrase refers to handling the consequences or remaining effects of a significant event, often a disaster, accident, or difficult situation. Japanese expressions vary depending on whether the focus is on processing the event, cleaning up physically, or managing ongoing effects.
To express dealing with the emotional, social, or logistical consequences of a major negative event.
Literally 'to do the cleanup/aftermath handling'. Commonly used for dealing with the consequences of an event, including both physical cleanup and resolving lingering issues.
地震の後始末に追われている。
I'm busy dealing with the aftermath of the earthquake.
Means 'to do post-event processing'. Often used in formal or business contexts for handling the aftermath of incidents or accidents.
事故の事後処理に当たっている。
We are dealing with the aftermath of the accident.
Focuses on physical tidying up or cleaning after an event. Can be used metaphorically for resolving leftover problems.
台風の後片付けで一日が終わった。
I spent the whole day dealing with the aftermath of the typhoon.
Literally 'to deal with the aftermath/aftereffects'. 余波 means ripple effects or secondary consequences. More formal and less common in daily speech.
不祥事の余波に対処しなければならない。
We must deal with the aftermath of the scandal.
To express taking responsibility for the results of one's own behavior, often with a nuance of cleaning up a mess.
Idiom meaning 'to clean up one's own mess'. Implies dealing with the negative consequences of one's own actions.
彼は自分の失敗の尻拭いをしなければならなかった。
He had to deal with the aftermath of his own mistake.
Similar to 後始末をする but with a nuance of settling or concluding the matter. Often used for personal responsibilities.
自分でまいた種の後始末は自分でつけなさい。
Deal with the aftermath of what you started yourself.
To express dealing with grief, shock, or psychological effects after a difficult experience.
Means 'to sort out one's feelings' or 'to come to terms emotionally'. Used when processing the emotional aftermath.
彼女は悲しみの心の整理をつけるのに時間がかかった。
It took her time to deal with the emotional aftermath of the tragedy.
Means 'to recover' or 'to get back on one's feet'. Focuses on the process of overcoming the aftermath.
彼はその経験から立ち直ろうとしている。
He is trying to deal with the aftermath of that experience.
The English phrase 'dealing with the aftermath' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Translating it word-for-word (e.g., 余波を扱う) sounds unnatural. Choose an expression based on the specific context.
後始末 (あとしまつ) is broader and includes resolving problems, while 後片付け (あとかたづけ) focuses on physical cleaning/tidying. Use 後始末 for abstract or complex aftermaths.